Waukegan residents oppose new storage unit citing traffic and safety concerns

The City of Waukegan Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held on April 10, 2025, focused on a proposed storage unit development that has sparked community concerns regarding traffic and safety. The meeting featured discussions about the project’s operational hours, site improvements, and local resident objections.

The primary topic of discussion was the proposed storage unit, which is set to operate from 8 AM to 6 PM. However, there was uncertainty about whether these hours would apply seven days a week or only on weekdays. The developer indicated that the site would undergo significant improvements, including resurfacing the parking lot and adding greenery to reduce the visual impact of asphalt.

Local residents, including Rosie and Bridget Jones, expressed strong objections to the project. They raised concerns about increased traffic from delivery trucks, particularly during school hours, and the potential impact on property values. The Jones family highlighted the narrowness of Twelfth Street and the presence of children playing nearby, emphasizing safety issues that could arise from the proposed development.

In response to community concerns, the developer assured that trucks would not be allowed on Twelfth Street, as it is not designated as a truck route. He also committed to enhancing neighborhood safety through improved signage and security measures.

The meeting concluded with a supportive comment from a nearby resident, who requested conditions to prevent issues such as excessive lighting and security cameras. The commission will consider these discussions and community feedback as they move forward with the planning process for the storage unit development.